In the United States, the 1937 Marijuana Tax Act, Pub. 238, 75th Congress, 50 Stat. 551 (August 2, 1937), was a significant bill on the path that led to the criminalization of cannabis. It was introduced to U.S. Congress by "Drug Czar" Harry Anslinger, then Commissioner of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics. Federal criminal offense to possess, produce, or dispense hemp. Prohibited for non medical use in California (1915), and Texas (1919).